Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Lichuan, China

1. Hanging Coffins of Sanyou

Ancient burial practice where coffins are suspended on cliff faces, offering a unique cultural insight.

Clifftop Location: Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below.
Cultural Significance: Offers a glimpse into the local Tujia ethnic group's funerary customs.
Adventure Element: Involves a challenging hike to reach the coffins.

An ancient temple built into the side of a cliff, accessible only by a narrow pathway.

Cliffside Location: Provides a thrilling experience for those who dare to venture up.
Buddhist Art and Architecture: Offers a rare opportunity to appreciate centuries-old Buddhist sculptures.
Mystique and History: Shrouded in local legends, it is believed to house the sacred Tianzhu statue.

A narrow road carved into a mountain that allows drivers to experience driving on a cliff edge.

Thrill of the Drive: Provides an adrenaline-pumping experience for adventure seekers.
Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cultural Experience: Allows visitors to interact with local truck drivers who use this road daily.

A lesser-known canyon offering awe-inspiring natural beauty and hiking opportunities.

Natural Wonders: Showcases the raw power of erosion and geological formations.
Hiking Adventures: Provides challenging trails for avid hikers.
Photography Opportunities: Offers picturesque landscapes perfect for capturing stunning images.

An ancient town with preserved Tujia architectural styles and a lively market.

Architectural Preservation: Showcases the unique Tujia wooden architecture.
Local Market Experience: Allows visitors to immerse themselves in local life and shop for unique souvenirs.
Cultural Immersion: Offers a glimpse into the rich Tujia culture through dance performances and traditional festivals.

A spectacular gorge carved by the Yuanjiang River, offering stunning views and hiking trails.

Natural Wonders: Showcases the raw power of water and geological forces.
Hiking Adventures: Provides challenging trails for avid hikers.
Photography Opportunities: Offers picturesque landscapes perfect for capturing stunning images.

A city themed around Chinese mythology and ghost legends, offering a unique cultural experience.

Cultural Insight: Offers a deeper understanding of Chinese beliefs about the afterlife.
Thematic Attractions: Features various ghost-themed exhibits, temples, and sculptures.
Entertainment Value: Provides nightly performances of Chinese folk art, such as shadow puppetry.

A breathtaking natural phenomenon where sea clouds engulf the forest, creating a dream-like landscape.

Natural Wonders: Offers an enchanting and unique experience.
Photography Opportunities: Provides stunning, otherworldly landscapes perfect for capturing memorable images.
Adventure Element: Requires an early morning hike to reach the best viewing spots.

A glass-bottomed suspension bridge offering thrilling views of the valley below.

Thrill of Height: Provides an adrenaline-pumping experience for those who dare to cross.
Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Photography Opportunities: Allows visitors to capture unique images through the glass bottom.

A natural pit created by a collapsed cave, offering a unique geological experience.

Natural Wonders: Showcases the raw power of geological forces.
Adventure Element: Involves a challenging hike to reach the Tiankeng.
Scientific Insight: Provides opportunities for geological studies and learning.

A valley filled with natural hot springs, offering a relaxing getaway amidst nature.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Offers a chance to unwind and recharge in the soothing waters.
Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Healing Properties: Believed to have medicinal properties due to the mineral-rich waters.

Rock art dating back thousands of years, showcasing the history and culture of the region.

Historical Insight: Offers a glimpse into the past and local history.
Cultural Experience: Provides opportunities to learn about the early inhabitants of the region.
Scenic Beauty: Located in a picturesque natural setting.

A hiking trail leading to multiple waterfalls, offering a refreshing and invigorating experience.

Natural Wonders: Showcases the power and beauty of moving water.
Hiking Adventures: Provides challenging trails for avid hikers.
Photography Opportunities: Offers picturesque landscapes perfect for capturing stunning images.

An annual event where sky lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere.

Cultural Experience: Offers an opportunity to participate in a traditional Chinese festival.
Entertainment Value: Provides nightly performances and activities leading up to the lantern release.
Romantic Atmosphere: Creates a dream-like, romantic ambiance perfect for couples.

A harvest festival where the full moon is worshipped and offerings are made, offering a unique cultural experience.

Cultural Insight: Offers an opportunity to learn about local agricultural traditions.
Spiritual Experience: Allows visitors to experience traditional rituals and offerings.
Scenic Beauty: Takes place in a beautiful natural setting under the light of the full moon.